The Oakwood University Church sanctuary was lively and inspiring on June 7, as it hosted the 2025 Pathfinder Investiture Service. With neat uniforms, shining badges, and hearts full of pride, the event celebrated a year of dedication, discipline, and spiritual growth.
The annual investiture, which honors the achievements of young Pathfinders, celebrated not only their accomplishments, but also the transformation brought about by their journey of faith and service.
Pathfinders from every class, from Friend to Guide, were invested during the ceremony. As their names and achievements were announced, the young people stood tall, proudly displaying insignias earned over months of classwork, service projects, honors, and spiritual training.
“This service is about more than just completion; it’s about transformation,” said one of the directors. Throughout the year, Pathfinders took part in various activities, from earning the Seeds Honor through nature studies to helping with community food drives and mastering precision marching as part of the Color Guard.
One highlight of the event was the investiture of the Teen Leadership Trainees (TLTs), a select group of high school-aged Pathfinders who assume leadership roles within the club. The teens go beyond mere participation by actively taking responsibility for planning events, mentoring younger members, and managing operations.
Their contributions included leading drills, organizing meals at Friendship Camp, and supporting the club’s various community service projects. The congregation erupted in applause as the TLTs received their distinctive scarves and pins, symbols of their growing servant leadership.
“These teens are not just the future leaders of the Church — they’re already taking initiative and leading now,” said a counselor after the ceremony.
Throughout the investiture service, the atmosphere was filled with spiritual significance. The music inspired worship, prayers were sincere, and a shared sense of fulfillment united everyone present. Parents, instructors, and directors experienced the deep joy of seeing the results of their efforts in the growth of the young Pathfinders.
Special appreciation during the service was given to parents, counselors, and church leaders who have dedicated countless hours to mentoring the youth. “Their faithfulness behind the scenes is the foundation of this public celebration,” noted one of the club organizers.
Pathfinders received a wide range of honors throughout the year, including Pin Trading, First Aid, Health & Fitness, and Camping Skills, along with various local honors. However, the real achievement was in the character growth shown by these young people — traits such as perseverance, teamwork, respect, and spiritual maturity.
“These badges represent more than skills — they symbolize the development of young individuals who understand their purpose in Christ and are prepared to serve,” remarked Brian Dublin Jr., Master Guide and director of club operations.
The 2025 investiture was more than just a year-end event; it was a declaration of the Pathfinder Club’s momentum in developing future leaders. Through programs like Friendship Camp, community outreach efforts such as Kicks for Kids, and a growing Drum Corps and Color Guard, the Oakwood University Church Pathfinder Club continues to expand in both mission and influence.
“This generation is eager for purpose, and Pathfinders offers more than just activities — it provides identity, leadership, and Christ-centered direction,” said Dublin.
Dwain Woode, M.D., delivered the keynote address, highlighting the larger mission of the program. “Pathfinders isn’t just about patches. It’s about purpose. It’s about people. And, it’s about preparing these young men and women to lead in life and in faith,” he said.
As the congregation joined the Pathfinders for the final recitation of their pledge and the closing hymn, the significance of the ceremony was evident. The 2025 investiture was not merely a celebration but a spiritual charge, setting the tone for what God will continue to accomplish through these young disciples in the years ahead.
The Pathfinder Club is actively fulfilling its mission, demonstrating that it is more than just an organization — it’s a movement focused on growth, service, and leadership.
South Central | August 2025
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